Here Are The Best Hotels In CA: US News Report

Nearly 150 hotels in California were singled out for excellence in a new ranking from U.S. News that helps travelers find a hotel that best suits their needs.

The 2026 Best Hotels ranking includes the following in California:

• Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Collection — Rutherford (No.1)

A French countryside-inspired hotel in Napa Valley with "meandering gardens," fireplaces, private terraces and Michelin-starred dining.

This hotel's garden space features dozens of sculptures from California artists in partnership with a gallery, according to U.S. News.

• Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa — Rancho Santa Fe (No. 2)

A resort and spa with spacious rooms, just a 30-minute drive north of San Diego. This hotel has a Mediterranean ambiance mixed with hacienda-style architecture, according to U.S. News.

• The Beverly Hills Hotel — Los Angeles (No. 3)

No hotel exudes La-La Land lore as much as the Beverly Hills Hotel. Also known as the "Pink Palace," the hotel inspired the popular song "Hotel California" and is where Elizabeth Taylor had her six honeymoons, according to U.S. News.

• Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills — Los Angeles (No. 4)

A towering hotel overlooking the most coveted neighborhood in Los Angeles, where the Hollywood sign can be seen on a clear day. There's a rooftop pool, a private balcony in every room and an espresso machine.

• Fairmont Grand Del Mar — San Diego (No. 5)

A hotel with a "rich Tuscan decor" that makes for a relaxing stay, according to U.S. News. It features a five-star spa, a golf course designed by architect Tom Fazio and award-winning dining.

Other hotels include:

• The Ritz-Carlton — San Francisco (No. 7)
• Terranea Resort — Rancho Palos Verdes (No. 27)
• Post Ranch Inn — Big Sur (No. 41)
• Cordevalle — San Martin (No. 71)
• Fairmont Breakers — Long Beach (No. 76)

The 2026 ranking, the 16th annual from U.S. News, highlights more than 31,000 hotels across more than 400 destinations. For the second year in a row, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on Hawaii’s Big Island takes the No. 1 spot in the Best Hotels in the USA ranking.

The Four Seasons brand extended its dominance with Four Seasons Resort Lanai claiming the No. 2 spot. The Langham Chicago came in at No. 3, and the Mandarin Oriental claimed the No. 4 and No. 5 spots with properties in New York City and Boston.

U.S. News also ranked hotels in Europe, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda.

“The hotels highlighted in U.S. News’ 2026 Best Hotels rankings set the standard for top-tier customer service, stellar amenities and truly memorable guest experiences,” Zach Watson, senior data editor, travel at U.S. News, said in a news release. “Recognition in this year’s rankings sets hotels and resorts apart as the industry’s best, and each list provides a central starting point for travelers seeking the best options for them.”